Charlotte, NC, January 7, 2011 - The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is recommending project changes to the LYNX Blue Line Extension (BLE) to reduce the cost of the light rail project. In order to advance the BLE, project costs need to be lowered by approximately 20 percent. “We are reviewing all aspects of the line, including how to accommodate ridership demand initially and provide flexibility in the future.” says Danny Rogers, Transit Corridor Senior Project Manager for the BLE. “One proposed change is to end the line on the UNC Charlotte campus and not extend the line to I-485. By shortening the project, CATS is able to keep key project elements that ensure a high quality system, reliable service, and safe and secure operations.”

CATS invites the public to attend either of two public meetings next week to hear details and provide feedback on the recommended project scope changes to the BLE. Maps of the recommended project changes will be on display. The Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC) will vote on final changes to the BLE at their January 26, 2011, meeting.
The same information will be presented at both meetings.